Nikon D3300 - Manual (Page 134)

114 P, S, A, and M Modes
Metering
Choose how the camera sets exposure.
Exposure
Method Description
L Matrix metering
Produces natural results in most situations. The
camera meters a wide area of the frame and sets
exposure according to tone distribution, color,
composition, and distance.
M
Center-weighted
metering
Classic meter for portraits. Camera meters entire
frame but assigns greatest weight to center area.
Recommended when using filters with an
exposure factor (filter factor) over 1×.
N Spot metering
Choose this mode to ensure that subject will be
correctly exposed, even when background is
much brighter or darker. Camera meters current
focus point; use to meter off-center subjects.